Rehabilitation Before Cancer Treatment Can Improve Your Physical and Mental Well-Being

Many cancer patients focus on treatment and recovery after diagnosis, but experts say an important opportunity is often overlooked: the weeks between diagnosis and treatment. Emerging research suggests that preparing physically and mentally before treatment begins may help patients better tolerate surgery, chemotherapy and other treatment interventions.

A recent review of studies examining cancer prehabilitation found that supervised exercise programs before treatment can improve cardiorespiratory fitness, physical function, fatigue levels and quality of life, adding to growing evidence that patients may benefit from preparing physically and mentally before cancer treatment begins.

According to Ashley Perry, PT, DPT, CLT, MTC, cancer rehabilitation navigator at Brooks Rehabilitation, the period between diagnosis and treatment presents an opportunity for patients to take proactive steps to improve their physical and mental well-being through exercise, nutrition and stress management.

How prehabilitation helps before cancer treatment

Prehabilitation is designed to improve a patient’s baseline health before treatment begins.

Perry explains that stronger cardiovascular health can help patients better tolerate the physical demands associated with surgery, chemotherapy and radiation. Regular exercise may also help strengthen the immune system, reduce stress hormones and support recovery after treatment, she adds.

She also notes that cancer-focused wellness programs can offer patients a valuable sense of community and support, helping them stay engaged and motivated throughout treatment preparation.

Five ways to prepare for cancer treatment

1. Stay Active

Patients do not need to take part in intense or complicated exercise programs to see benefits. Perry recommends focusing on activities that are enjoyable, sustainable and performed at a moderate intensity.

“Some beneficial activities include walking at a moderate pace [and] cycling if this is something they already enjoy doing. Swimming can be a great exercise,” said Perry. She notes that patients should generally avoid high-contact sports they are not accustomed to participating in, as well as heavy resistance training in certain cases involving metastatic disease.

“Anything that a patient enjoys doing and [that] gets them to a moderate intensity level will be great. Moderate meaning you could carry a conversation with someone during the activity, but it wouldn’t be easy. If they enjoy the activity, they are more likely to continue it during and after treatment,” Perry said.

She notes that research shows maintaining at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity activity each week may help reduce recurrence rates for many cancer diagnoses.

2. Support Your Mental Well-being

Preparing for treatment is not just about physical health. A cancer diagnosis can take a significant toll on a person’s emotional well-being, making stress management an important part of prehabilitation.

“Exercise and relaxation techniques can help with pre-treatment anxiety and give the patient a sense of control in a situation they may otherwise feel out of control,” said Perry.

She adds that wellness programs designed specifically for cancer patients can help foster a sense of community and connection during a challenging time.

3. Build a Strong Support System

According to Perry, having support in place before treatment begins can make a meaningful difference before, during and after treatment.

“For patients who have close family or friends, finding their support system can also be very beneficial,” said Perry.

Friends and family can help provide both emotional support and practical assistance before, during and after treatment.

4. Advocate for Rehabilitation Services

Perry encourages patients to take an active role in their care and discuss rehabilitation services with their healthcare team as early as possible.

“Advocating for themselves for rehab such as physical, occupational or speech therapy during all stages of their cancer journey is imperative,” Perry said.

These services can help patients maintain function, manage symptoms and improve quality of life throughout treatment and recovery.

5. Stay Engaged in Your Care

Remaining proactive and involved in their own care is one of the most important steps patients can take following a diagnosis, Perry says.

“Finding ways to stay active and engaged in their care are ways they can take control of their health and improve outcomes,” said Perry.

Preparing the body and mind for cancer treatment

Despite growing awareness of prehabilitation, Perry says many patients still assume they should simply rest until treatment begins. However, she says staying active can be a better way to prepare for some individuals.

“People often feel they have to relax and rest before going to a lot of appointments, but really, keeping occupied and getting stronger is a better way to prepare for treatment than staying home and focusing on the upcoming treatment or prognosis of their disease,” Perry said.

While a cancer diagnosis can leave patients feeling uncertain about what comes next, Perry says staying active, prioritizing well-being, building a strong support system and advocating for rehabilitation services can help patients feel more prepared for treatment and recovery.

To learn more about Brooks’ cancer rehabilitation services and wellness programs, visit our cancer rehabilitation program page.